FC Köln Draws 1-1 in Youth League Clash with FC Midtjylland

Köln, Germany — FC Köln‘s youth team faced FC Midtjylland in the UEFA Youth League on November 26, 2025. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, keeping the hopes alive for Köln to progress in the tournament.

In front of 4,190 fans at the Franz-Kremer-Stadion, Köln started strong, looking to capitalize on chances with striker Schenten. The team created early opportunities, but Midtjylland held more possession without threatening significantly.

The turning point came just before halftime. A free kick from Midtjylland’s captain, Lodberg, hit the post, and in the scramble to clear, Emefile scored the opening goal for Midtjylland in the 43rd minute, putting Köln behind 0-1.

However, Köln responded quickly after the break. Just four minutes into the second half, Schenten leveled the score with a calm finish, bringing the score to 1-1 in the 49th minute. The home team kept the pressure on, with Ponente-Ramirez nearly giving Köln the lead in the 57th minute, hitting the crossbar.

Defensely, goalkeeper Marutzki made key saves, notably stopping a shot from Midtjylland’s Pimpong in the 68th minute. The match intensified towards the end, with a confrontation involving Midtjylland’s Krubally over a referee decision leading to a brief scuffle in the 90th minute.

The draw leaves everything open for the second leg in Denmark on December 10. With this result, FC Köln has a chance to face top clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Liverpool, depending on how their journey in the tournament unfolds. The final showdown will take place in Nyon in April.